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| Criterion | ![]() Operations PDCA Cycle | ![]() Operations DMAIC | ![]() Architecture SAAM (Software Architecture Analysis Method) | ![]() Operations Kaizen Event |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | For an improvement that still has to prove itself in everyday work, the method runs it through small learning loops. It connects planning, checking, and standardization into a repeatable learning mode. | For a process problem with fluctuating performance, the method brings analysis and improvement into a disciplined sequence. It creates a framework in which numbers, causes, and control come together. | SAAM helps teams judge an architecture’s suitability for selected tasks and changes. It is particularly useful for examining modifiability and comparing architecture alternatives with clear reasoning. | For a tightly scoped process segment with noticeable waste, the method bundles shared energy for change. It suits situations that call for fast learning loops and visible adjustments. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | High | High | Medium |
Timedifferent | 1 h bis mehrere Wochen | 2-12 Wochen | Preparation, scenario analysis, and findings review; effort depends on scope | 0.5-5 Tage |
Participantsdifferent | 1-8 | 3-10 | Architecture experts and stakeholders for scenarios and weighting | 4-10 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | PDCA Log, Experiment Plan, Learning Outcome, Standard Change | Project Charter, Measurement Plan, Cause Analysis, Control Plan | Domain functions mapped to components and connections, Quality attributes and evaluation criteria, Typical tasks and their effects on the architecture, Reasoned evaluation or comparison of alternatives | Kaizen Charter, Waste List, Improvement Experiments, Standard Work Update |
Tagsno overlap | Continuous improvementLeanExperiments | Continuous improvementQualityProcess improvement | ArchitectureChangeAnalysisComparisonQuality | LeanContinuous improvementOperations |



